Sheep c. 19th century

Editor: This is a drawing by Thomas Sidney Cooper, titled simply, "Sheep." It feels very pastoral and quiet. What do you see in this piece, beyond the obvious, I suppose? Curator: Beyond the flock, eh? I see a study in textures, a love for the ordinary. Notice how Cooper renders the wool – not just as white fluff, but with such detail, you can almost feel its weight and warmth. Does it evoke a sense of calm for you as well? Editor: It does, actually. It makes me want to take a nap right there with them. Curator: Perhaps Cooper wanted us to find a bit of pastoral peace in our hectic lives. A reminder to appreciate the simple beauty of barnyard life. It seems we both learned something about finding calm in art.